“Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God” (Philippians 1:3 MSG).

The apostle Paul generally expressed his gratitude for God in each of his epistles or letters in salutation. “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen” (Galatians 1:3-5 NAS). He desired to share his gratefulness to God and express his gratitude for God’s love of him. “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor” (1 Timothy 1:12-13 NAS).

Well, in this letter to the Philippians Paul was commenting and thanking them for their generosity and giving. “Even while I was in Thessalonica, you helped out–and not only once, but twice” (Philippians 4:16MSG). They continued to provide for his needs and he blessed them with God’s promise. “You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 MSG).

Likewise, we should find ways to bless those who has blessed us. If they’ve ever helped, supported, covered or empowered you, tell them thank you. Thank you makes room for more. When a person(s) come across your mind and you remember their kindness towards you, break out in praise to God and thank God for them. “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God” (Philippians 1:3 NTL).

Prayer:

Lord every day is a day of thanksgiving. You are an awesome God and you provide new mercies every day. You have loaded me up with the mercy of people who care about me. Thank you Father for your provision and your help. Thank you for placing the right people around me who continuously bless me by either their service, or their sacrifice. Thank you for reminding me how to be thankful and grateful. Jesus you are my strength and my help and I say Thank you! Amen.

God’s Peace and Good Journey!

Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Bronner, a native Philadelphian, is a trailblazing visionary. He is the Senior Pastor of Elim Christian Fellowship of both Buffalo, and Rochester, New York. Bronner founded the churches on November 7, 1999 and November 17, 2002, respectively. Prior to that, he was the pastor of the prestigious Calvary Baptist Church also of Buffalo, New York.